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Reserves Reinstated for 2025 Grand National as Racing Chiefs Perform U-Turn
The Randox Grand National is known for its rich history, thrilling unpredictability, and evolving rules aimed at improving both safety and fairness. For the 2025 renewal, scheduled to take place on Saturday, 5th April, a major policy change has been confirmed—reserves will once again be allowed into the race if there are any non-runners before the final cut-off.
This marks a reversal of the rule introduced two years ago, which had prevented reserves from replacing withdrawn runners due to technological challenges. However, following concerns over fairness and the impact of late withdrawals, racing officials have decided to reintroduce the system in time for this year’s race.
This decision comes alongside other significant changes introduced last year, including:
- A reduction in the field size from 40 to 34 runners, aimed at improving safety and reducing congestion.
- Modifications to certain fences, including the repositioning of fence 11 to allow for a smoother approach.
These adjustments reflect the continued evolution of the Grand National, as officials strive to balance the prestige and challenge of the race with concerns about horse welfare, safety, and fairness for connections.
Why Were Reserves Banned in 2023?
For many years, the Grand National operated a reserve system, allowing up to four reserves to replace any non-runners declared before 1 PM on the Friday before the race. This ensured that the full field was maintained, preventing races from having fewer starters than planned.
However, ahead of the 2023 Grand National, the system was scrapped due to concerns about technological limitations. The issue stemmed from modern betting markets and media systems, which struggled to integrate late changes efficiently. Given the global scale of betting on the race, the fear was that introducing reserves at short notice could lead to confusion and disruption for bookmakers, broadcasters, and punters.
As a result, when horses withdrew before the 2023 and 2024 races, they were not replaced, leading to fields smaller than 40 runners. This frustrated many owners and trainers, particularly those who narrowly missed out on making the final lineup.
Why Has the Reserve System Been Reintroduced?
Following widespread dissatisfaction from trainers and owners, as well as a review by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) and Aintree Racecourse, it was decided that the benefits of the reserve system outweighed the challenges posed by technology.
Key reasons for the U-turn include:
- Fairness for Connections – Horses that narrowly miss out on the final 34 runners will now have a second chance if any competitors withdraw. This is particularly significant given the long preparation that goes into a Grand National campaign.
- Maintaining Full Field Size – The Grand National is one of the most bet-on races in the world, and having as many runners as possible ensures greater competitiveness and spectacle.
- Improved Implementation of Technology – Advances in betting systems and race administration have reportedly addressed the previous challenges, making it easier to accommodate last-minute changes without disrupting the betting markets.
This return of reserves aligns the Grand National with other major races, including the Epsom Derby and Irish Grand National, which have successfully retained their reserve policies.
Other Changes Introduced in 2024
The decision to bring back reserves is the latest in a series of modifications made to the Grand National format. Last year, two significant changes were introduced, both of which will remain in place for 2025:
1. Field Size Reduced from 40 to 34
For many years, the Grand National was contested by 40 runners, a tradition that had been in place since 1984. However, in 2024, the decision was made to reduce the number of starters to 34 to enhance safety.
This reduction aimed to:
- Minimise early-race congestion, reducing the likelihood of falls and unseated riders.
- Provide more space for horses to navigate fences safely, particularly at challenging jumps like Becher’s Brook and The Chair.
- Improve overall race fairness, allowing jockeys to ride more tactically rather than being dictated by the sheer number of runners.
While some traditionalists opposed this change, early evidence suggests that it has been beneficial, with fewer fallers and fewer early-race incidents in 2024 compared to previous years.
2. Fence Modifications
Aintree has made subtle but significant alterations to certain fences in recent years. In 2024, fence 11 was repositionedto allow for a smoother approach, reducing the risk of pile-ups.
Additionally, some fence cores were softened to provide a more forgiving landing, while take-off areas were adjustedto encourage a better jumping rhythm. These changes aim to preserve the Grand National’s unique test while ensuring the highest possible welfare standards.
Reaction from Trainers, Jockeys, and Officials
The return of the reserve system has been broadly welcomed by the racing community.
Trainer Gordon Elliott, who has won the Grand National twice, commented:
“It’s great to see reserves back. If you’re number 35 or 36 in the list, it’s frustrating to miss out, especially when there’s always a chance that horses drop out late on. This decision makes sure we have a full field and gives more horses a chance.”
Jockey Davy Russell, who won the race twice on Tiger Roll, added:
“Reserves make sense. The race has changed over the years, but one thing that hasn’t changed is that owners and trainers put in months, even years, of planning to get a horse here. If a horse pulls out, another should get the chance.”
Clerk of the Course Sulekha Varma explained the reasoning behind the decision:
“We’ve worked closely with industry experts to ensure the return of reserves is manageable within modern betting and broadcasting systems. We believe this change will improve the fairness and competitiveness of the Grand National.”
Looking Ahead to the 2025 Grand National
With reserves now reinstated, the 2025 Grand National is set to be run under a slightly different format than in previous years, reflecting the sport’s ongoing commitment to safety, fairness, and modernisation.
While some purists may resist changes, these adjustments are aimed at preserving the Grand National’s status as the world’s greatest steeplechase while ensuring it remains safe and sustainable for future generations.
With reserves ready to step in if needed, and a reduced but still highly competitive field, anticipation is building for what promises to be another thrilling edition of the Aintree spectacular.
